Building project manager - Volunteer

Sea Cadets is the UKs leading maritime charity, helping young people get the best head start in life through nautical adventure and fun.

At Malvern Sea Cadets we’re looking for support to help shape the next phase of our building development.

What difference will you make?

By leading this refurbishment project, you will directly improve the safety, accessibility, and pride of our Sea Cadet unit. Your contribution will help create a welcoming, well-maintained space where young people can learn, grow, and build confidence for years to come. A modernised entrance and lobby area will not only enhance first impressions for new cadets and parents, but also support our volunteers with a more functional environment. Your expertise will ensure that every pound we raise is used effectively, leaving a lasting legacy that strengthens our unit’s presence in the community and supports the next generation of Sea Cadets.

What are we looking for?

Any relevant experience would be helpful but a combination of the following would be desirable

• Project management experience in building, refurbishment, facilities, or a related field (professional or volunteer).
• Strong organisational and planning skills, with the ability to coordinate multiple tasks and stakeholders.
• Good understanding of building works such as refurbishment processes, contractor liaison, basic construction principles, and reading or interpreting plans.
• Ability to assess options and make recommendations, providing clear summaries for committee decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to work effectively with volunteers, contractors, and external partners.
• Confidence in overseeing budgets and quotations, ensuring value for money and responsible use of funds.
• Awareness of health & safety and building regulations, or willingness to learn and seek guidance where needed.
• Problem-solving mindset, able to anticipate issues and adapt plans as circumstances change (e.g., fundraising progress or contractor availability).
• Practical hands-on skills or willingness to assist in light DIY tasks or volunteer work parties (desirable, not essential).
• Commitment to the values of the Sea Cadets and to creating a safe, accessible, and welcoming environment for young people.
  
  

What will you be doing?

Responsibilities For The Role – Volunteer Building Project Manager

• Define and refine the project scope for the refurbishment of the unit’s frontage, including windows, lighting, signage, entranceway, lobby layout, doors, and potential cladding improvements.
• Assess the current building condition and help identify opportunities to improve accessibility, insulation, and the efficient use of lobby space (including exploring the feasibility of removing an internal wall).
• Coordinate all project activities, acting as the primary point of contact between contractors, suppliers, and unit volunteer stakeholders.
• Develop project plans and timelines, working around fundraising progress and supporting the unit in achieving completion by mid-next year.
• Prepare cost options and recommendations for review, ensuring that all major decisions are submitted for committee approval.
• Oversee contractor quotations, tenders, and scheduling, ensuring work is delivered efficiently, within agreed budgets, and to required standards.
• Monitor on-site progress, carrying out regular check-ins and escalating issues or delays where necessary.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety requirements, safeguarding considerations, and local building/planning regulations.
• Report project status to the Unit Chairman and provide clear updates to the wider unit management team.
• Support hands-on tasks where appropriate, assisting with light DIY or volunteer work parties if willing and able.
• Maintain accurate project documentation, including plans, approvals, risk assessments, and contractor communications.